You will always be mommy’s loving, sweet baby boy.
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The parents and friends of Lane Graves, the boy killed by an alligator at a Walt Disney World resort in June, gathered to celebrate what would have been his third birthday.
“Today Lane would have turned three years old but we celebrate his first birthday in heaven with the community that has surrounded us with love and support”, he said.
“Happy birthday Lanie”, said his mom, Melissa Graves. “Anybody who knows me knows I don’t like to speak, but, my baby, I owe it to him to honor him”, she said. “We miss you, buddy, and we miss those hugs and kisses”, Melissa Graves said.
Matt Graves said Lane’s life brought joy to the family.
Lane’s parents, Melissa and Matt Graves spoke to the crowd of more than 600 people just before they all released thousands of blue balloons into the air in memory of the young boy, the Omaha World-Herald reported. The family also has a four-year-old daughter. We miss you buddy and we miss those hugs and kisses.
Lane Graves, 2, was killed after being snatched by an alligator at a Walt Disney hotel.
The company built fences and barriers around some of the lakes and installed “No Fishing” signs around waterfront areas. Now, his grieving parents have spoken publicly for the first time, and thanked their tight-knit community for all they have done for their family. Disney World also limited fishing to excursions. The event was organized by Mike and Brandi Miller, whom Matt described as “the best neighbors anyone could wish for”.
“These are obviously all people that have your back”, said family friend Talia Hogan.
Matt and Melissa offered M&M’s cookies, Lane’s favorite treat, and handed out small silver crosses with blue ribbons attached to a prayer card.
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The Graves family has decided not to sue Walt Disney World in the wake of their son’s death.
